1. What is the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist?

The real nutrition expert is a registered dietitian. There are so many “nutrition advisors” out there, sometimes it’s difficult to tell who is a qualified expert. A registered dietitian is recognized by medical professionals and insurance companies as the most valuable source of nutrition information. Registered dietitians provide reliable, up-to-date food and nutrition information. RD’S know the science behind nutrition and have the education and research to provide evidence based practice. Many times, authors or salespeople for dietary supplements , for example may call themselves “nutritionists.” In reality, they may only be self-proclaimed experts. When you need trusted, accurate, timely, and practical nutrition advice, seek the advice of a registered dietitian.

2. What is NCT’S approach to weight loss?

We have a non-diet approach to weight loss with an emphasis on overall health and focusing on changing the philosophy of eating as opposed to what a person could and could not eat. Too often, people adopt the latest diet fad, which may work for a while, but then they hit weight-loss plateaus and ultimately end the diet in frustration. By putting more emphasis on your health and making lifestyle changes, experts have proven that you can raise your overall self-esteem, resulting in healthy eating, weight loss, and improved overall health.

3. Are you a member of the “Clean Plate Club?”

Learning to make food choices and judge proper portions occurs very early in life, so give your kids a chance to determine when they are full. The “Clean plate club” does not allow for a person’s hunger to determine when they are full. A pattern of overeating can lead to a person being overweight as an adult.

4. BMI: What does it mean?

BMI stands for body mass index that is the relationship of your body weight to height. BMI is used to provide some insight into whether you weigh more or less than you should. However, BMI does not take into account muscle mass which weighs more than fat mass. Use BMI as a guide only. The ideal BMI should be between 20 and 25. If you’re below, you may be underweight and if you’re above, it could mean you are overweight.
To calculate your BMI: (weight in lbs. x 703) /(height in inches)/ (height in inches)

5. Sports Nutrition: How to fuel your body for sports performance.

Other than genetics and training, what the athlete eats is probably the most important determinant of success in sports. Proper nutrition supports training and can improve performance, whereas improper nutrition can be detrimental to performance. Training for a competition or athletic event is not a time of dieting. The athlete needs to get the best possible nutrition to properly fuel their body to enhance sports performance. Thousands of studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of various nutrients and nutritional strategies on exercise and sports performance. Such research has provided us with the scientific evidence to support prudent dietary recommendations for athletes competing in various sports.

6. FAQ for Bariatric Patients: Why must I take supplements after bariatric surgery?

One of the benefits of bariatric surgery is to make your stomach pouch much smaller. This means you will not be able to eat enough food to meet your needs for vitamins and minerals. If you don’t take supplements after surgery, you will probably end up with some type of nutrient deficiency.
You will need chewable or liquid forms of supplements available. Check out http://www.optisource.com/, http://www.bariatriceating.com/, or http://www.bariatrix.com/. These websites carry products that can meet your needs.
Another option is taking 2 children’s’ complete formula for a chewable tablet. You will need extra B12 and calcium.
Still confused? We can help you develop an individualized plan to help you stay healthy before, during and after surgery. Contact our office for an appointment.

7. How to Spot a Food Fad?

It is easy to become confused about healthy food and what to eat. How can you tell fact from fiction?
Here are some quick tips to become a savvy health conscious consumer:

Does the recommendation offer a quick fix? If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is

Avoid products that offer a “guaranteed cure”

There are no “good” and “bad” foods. All foods can fit in part of a balanced diet that includes variety and moderation.

Does the product display false advertising? Be sure to read the back of the food label and ingredient list to see if the product is false advertising.

8. What is the difference between food allergies and food intolerances?

Food allergies are abnormal responses of the body’s immune system to certain foods or ingredients. Food allergies can show up as rashes, swelling of the skin, nasal congestion, nausea and diarrhea or the most serious reaction, anaphylactic shock, which is life threatening. About one percent of adults suffer from food allergies so knowing what to avoid is important. Most common allergens are peanuts, shellfish, and eggs

Food intolerances do not involve the immune system, but reactions can mimic those of allergies. With food intolerance, the body can not adequately digest a certain component of a particular food. Intolerances can involve many different foods, which makes it important to learn what substances trigger a reaction.

*Food allergies and intolerances should be diagnosed by a physician, and a registered dietitian can help develop an eating plan that’s right for you.